Fireballs and Earth-grazers add an extra level of excitement to the Leonid meteor showers.
Fireballs are larger explosions of light that outshine the stars with magnitudes brighter than -3. These occur when larger particles from the comet burn up in Earth’s atmosphere.
Earth-grazers, on the other hand, are meteors that streak close to the horizon, leaving behind long tails. Their near-horizontal trajectory gives them the illusion of skimming the Earth’s surface, making them a favorite among avid stargazers.
Maximize Your Viewing Experience
To fully enjoy the Leonid meteor showers, planning is key. Here are some expert tips for optimal viewing:
- Find a Dark Spot: Seek an area far from city lights and light pollution for the clearest views.
- Prepare for the Weather: Bundle up with warm clothing, blankets, or a sleeping bag, as November nights can be chilly.
- Position Yourself Comfortably: Lie flat on your back with your feet facing east and allow your eyes 20–30 minutes to adjust to the dark.
- Avoid Looking Directly at Leo: While the meteors radiate from the constellation Leo, NASA suggests looking away from the radiant to catch meteors with longer tails.
This year, a nearly full supermoon may dim some of the fainter meteors, but the brightest fireballs and streaks should still shine through.
The Science Behind the Leonids
Meteor showers like the Leonids occur when Earth passes through trails of dust and debris left behind by comets. These debris particles, called meteoroids, collide with Earth’s atmosphere at high speeds and burn up, creating colorful streaks of light.
